ORGANISERS have cancelled this year's Jim Clark Rally.

The closed-road races were due to take place over the last weekend of May.

But the recent social gathering restrictions in light of the coronavirus outbreak led to today's decision.

John Fife from the Jim Clark Rally said: "The news headlines continue to be dominated by the effects, and indeed the dangers, of the coronavirus pandemic and the uncertainty of its duration.

"In fact the situation is likely to get a lot worse before it gets any better.

"With that in mind, we have spoken with Scottish Borders Council, motor sport's governing body Motorsport UK, and the event's sponsors, Beatson's Building Supplies plus other stakeholders and interested parties.

"The unanimous decision is that the rally should be cancelled for 2020.

"As we know only too well, sporting events attract more than just competitors.

"They need dozens of officials, marshals, paramedic and recovery crews as well as attracting thousands of spectators.

"On that basis, the current Government and medical advice is that such events should be cancelled."

Organisers will now begin preparing for next year's event.

Mr Fife added: "We all face difficult times ahead, but rally fans can rest assured that the enthusiastic team behind the annual Jim Clark Rally will not be idle over the coming weeks.

"Plans for this year's proposed event were already well underway with a new stage being added to the established favourites.

"This work will not be wasted as attention turns now to 2021."